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Tube Flies
Tube Flies are a great way to dress flies without having a large assortment of hooks. The idea of tubes came from across the ocean from our European friends. When you fish tubes you pass your leader through the body of the tube then tie to the hook. The hook can be left to swing freely or, as I have done on the flies below, use a clear plastic sleeve to hold the hook in place. Tubes have many benefits. As I've already stated, you do not need any hooks to tie them, only when you fish them. You can also create a large fly without adding the weight of a large hook, or the expense of the hook. You can buy 125 tubes for under $2. When you fight a fish the tube can slide up the line out of harms way. You can use a tube fly for as a teazer ahead of another traditional fly. One tube fly can have a treble one minute or a single the next. Really, there are many advantages to tube flies.
(The LaHave River has many regulations that change throughout the season. Gear resrtictions are common. Know the regulations before you do any angling.)
Supplies
Probably the most difficult thing in tying tubes is acquiring the right tools and the hollow tubes. The problem lies with getting the tube securely in the vise. Of course you can buy specific tools and tubes but that is expensive and not nearly as much fun. First I suggest you find a plentiful source for your tubes. I use cheap cotton swabs. If you use these make sure they are not bio-degradeable. You need swabs with plastic sticks not paper. I have even used lollipop sticks but that can get a little sticky;^)
Now you need something to insert inside so you may tighten it in your vise. Large sewing needles are commonly used for this. I was lucky enough to have a bobbin cleaner that fit snug inside the tubes. You do not want a very tight fit because once you start tying the the pressure of the thread will collaspe the tube some and you may not be able to get the finished tube off the insert.(experience talking)
Once you have the proper items to start, the rest is just like any other fly tying. Any fly can be converted to a tube. Experiment and remember practise, practise, and more practise.
My Tube Flies
Jamie Heim, Canada, ©1999-2003